Introduction to Argument

and Debate
Argument
 Components of An Argument

• Claim- the argument you want to make.

– Debaters call this the “tag”
– Should be a complete, persuasive sentence
– Should present the argument and why it matters
– Example: “The affirmative plan can’t solve:
there is no proof that the plan will reduce the
risk of war.”
 Components of An Argument

• Data- the evidence that is read to prove the claim.

– Written evidence should come from credible, published
sources
– Analytical proof can be based on logic, general
knowledge, or evidence already in the debate
Identifying Valid Evidence
 Components of An Argument

• Warrant- the “why” a claim is true.

 The “visual” version…

CLAIM
WARRANT

WARRANT

WARRANT
DATA
Ways to Answer An
Argument